Key Takeaways:
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Bikaner blends rich Rajasthani heritage, desert charm, and colorful festivals for a memorable experience any time of year.
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From exploring ancient forts to tasting world-famous snacks and watching camel parades, Bikaner offers something for every kind of traveler.
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Whether you’re into history, architecture, wildlife, or food, Bikaner is a vibrant city that thrives in all seasons.
Located in the northwest of Rajasthan, Bikaner is a desert city with a royal soul and a rugged charm. Founded in 1488 by Rao Bika, a Rathore prince, the city quickly became a strategic trade center along the ancient caravan routes. Bikaner stands out for its impressive sandstone forts, lavish palaces, colorful markets, and cultural festivals that celebrate both tradition and spectacle.
People love Bikaner not just for its historical grandeur, but for its authenticity and lack of overwhelming tourist crowds. It’s a place where camel carts still roam the streets, where artisans handcraft intricate fabrics, and where spicy snacks and sweets carry generations of flavor. Whether you come during the Camel Festival or a quiet winter day, Bikaner always has something magical to offer.
Table of Contents
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Explore the Grandeur of Junagarh Fort
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Visit the Unique Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)
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Take a Camel Safari Through the Thar Desert
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Wander the Narrow Lanes of the Old City and Havelis
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Celebrate at the Bikaner Camel Festival
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Relax at Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary
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Visit the Bhandasar Jain Temple
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Try Bikaneri Bhujia and Local Delicacies
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Admire Art at the Prachina Cultural Centre and Museum
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Watch Sunset from the Sand Dunes at Raisar
1. Explore the Grandeur of Junagarh Fort
Unlike most forts in Rajasthan, Junagarh Fort was never built on a hilltop—but its architectural might and historical importance are just as towering. Built in the late 16th century, this massive structure houses palaces, temples, and museums within its red sandstone walls. Visitors can stroll through ornately decorated rooms with mirror work, frescoes, and antique weapons on display.
The fort offers a deep dive into Bikaner’s royal past, with knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of kings and battles to life. It’s open year-round and offers shaded walkways that make exploring comfortable even in warmer months. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual traveler, Junagarh Fort is a must-see monument that reflects the regal heart of the city.
2. Visit the Unique Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple)
Located about 30 km from Bikaner in Deshnoke, Karni Mata Temple is unlike any religious site you’ve ever seen. Revered as the home of thousands of sacred rats, the temple draws both spiritual pilgrims and curious travelers. The rats are considered reincarnations of devotees, and spotting a white rat is said to bring good luck.
Though it may sound unusual, the temple’s marble carvings, silver doors, and spiritual ambiance make it a meaningful stop. Visitors walk barefoot as a sign of respect, and many come to observe the interaction between animals and worshippers. Open all year, this temple offers a fascinating glimpse into Rajasthan’s unique spiritual traditions.
3. Take a Camel Safari Through the Thar Desert
A camel safari is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the golden dunes surrounding Bikaner. Many local operators offer half-day, full-day, or overnight safaris that include camel rides, traditional folk performances, and Rajasthani meals cooked over open fires. Riding a camel through the vast Thar Desert gives you a sense of timelessness and freedom.
These safaris operate year-round, but winter (October to March) offers the most pleasant weather for riding and camping. The sunsets are especially breathtaking, casting long shadows over the rolling dunes. Whether you’re with friends, family, or on a solo journey, a camel safari adds a thrill of adventure to your Bikaner visit.
4. Wander the Narrow Lanes of the Old City and Havelis
The old city of Bikaner is a maze of narrow streets, ornate havelis (traditional mansions), and bustling bazaars. Walking through this area feels like stepping into a time capsule, where carved jharokhas (windows), colorful courtyards, and hand-painted walls tell stories of merchants and nobility. The Rampuria Havelis, in particular, are architectural masterpieces built in red sandstone and decorated with fine details.
These historic homes, though not all open to the public, can be admired from the outside as you explore on foot. Local guides often share interesting anecdotes about the families who once lived here. It’s an ideal way to connect with Bikaner’s living history, and perfect for travelers interested in photography, design, or culture.
5. Celebrate at the Bikaner Camel Festival
Held every January, the Bikaner Camel Festival is one of Rajasthan’s most colorful and celebrated events. Organized by the Department of Tourism, the festival features camel parades, beauty contests, folk music, traditional dance, and even camel acrobatics. Camels are adorned with vibrant jewelry and colorful textiles, creating a spectacle that draws visitors from around the world.
The festival also includes craft markets, food stalls, and cultural performances showcasing the best of Rajasthani tradition. While it’s a seasonal event, the preparations and local buzz begin well before the official dates. If your trip aligns with this celebration, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the bond between Bikaner and its iconic animal companions.
6. Relax at Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary
Once a royal summer retreat, Gajner Palace is now a heritage hotel located along the tranquil shores of Gajner Lake. Surrounded by forest and desert landscapes, the palace offers visitors the chance to explore regal courtyards, dine by the water, or simply relax in peaceful luxury. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can visit for a meal or a scenic stroll around the gardens and lake.
Adjacent to the palace is the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, home to antelope, wild boar, and migratory birds. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, especially in the cooler months when flocks arrive from Central Asia. You can arrange for a short wildlife safari or walk one of the designated nature trails. The combination of heritage architecture and wild surroundings makes this an ideal year-round escape.
7. Visit the Bhandasar Jain Temple
Bhandasar Jain Temple is one of the most exquisite temples in Bikaner, known for its detailed frescoes, mirror work, and vibrant colors. Built in the 15th century, the temple is dedicated to the fifth Jain Tirthankara and made uniquely with a mortar mix that includes ghee (clarified butter) instead of water. Inside, intricate paintings illustrate Jain stories, values, and cosmology.
The temple is peaceful and rarely crowded, offering a quiet spiritual experience amid Bikaner’s bustling streets. Visitors are welcomed regardless of religious background, provided they observe respectful behavior. Whether you’re spiritually inclined or artistically curious, the Bhandasar Temple is a visual and cultural treasure.
8. Try Bikaneri Bhujia and Local Delicacies
Bikaner is world-famous for its spicy snack, Bikaneri Bhujia—a crispy, flavorful chickpea flour noodle that’s become a household name across India. The city is home to numerous shops and family-run businesses where you can taste fresh batches straight from the source. Some factories even allow behind-the-scenes tours to see how the snack is made.
Beyond bhujia, Bikaner’s food scene includes kachoris, ghevar, rasgulla, and hearty Rajasthani thalis filled with dal baati churma. You’ll find these treats in local markets, roadside stalls, and traditional restaurants year-round. Don’t leave without stocking up on edible souvenirs or enjoying a local food tour.
9. Admire Art at the Prachina Cultural Centre and Museum
Housed within the Junagarh Fort complex, the Prachina Museum showcases the cultural lifestyle of Bikaner’s royal family and local artisans. Exhibits include royal costumes, antique furniture, textiles, and accessories from the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s one of the best places to understand the aesthetic and social heritage of Bikaner’s elite and everyday citizens alike.
The museum also highlights Bikaner’s long-standing contributions to textile arts, jewelry design, and ceremonial traditions. It’s well-maintained and quiet—perfect for a reflective afternoon visit. Art lovers and culture seekers will appreciate the detailed displays and intimate glimpse into Bikaner’s past.
10. Watch Sunset from the Sand Dunes at Raisar
For a more peaceful alternative to Jaisalmer’s dunes, the sand dunes near Raisar village offer a quieter, less-commercialized desert experience just 30 km from Bikaner. You can arrive by jeep or camel and spend the evening watching the sky turn gold over undisturbed waves of sand.
Local guides offer musical evenings with folk songs, fire-lit dinners, and light camping options for those who want to stay overnight. This area is best visited during the cooler months but is accessible all year long. For sunset seekers and off-the-beaten-path adventurers, Raisar delivers stunning views and cultural intimacy in the heart of the desert.
What to do if you have kids?
Bikaner is a family-friendly city with attractions that kids will genuinely enjoy. The camel safaris, Junagarh Fort, and Gajner Lake offer space to roam and explore. Kids are often fascinated by the Karni Mata Temple and the colorful Camel Festival. The city’s food—especially sweets and snacks—is also a big hit with little travelers. Just plan activities in the morning or late afternoon during hotter months, and keep plenty of water on hand. With its slower pace and welcoming locals, Bikaner makes for a relaxed and educational family adventure.
Where can I find free events in Bikaner India taking place this weekend?
To discover free cultural events, local fairs, live performances, or spiritual festivals happening in Bikaner this weekend, head to PlanMyWeekend.ai. The platform curates real-time local event listings for cities around the world—including Bikaner—making it easy to find unique things to do at no cost. Whether you’re looking for street music, public art exhibitions, or seasonal celebrations, PlanMyWeekend.ai helps you connect with the soul of the city without breaking your budget.
Final Thoughts
Bikaner is a city of color, flavor, and tradition—a desert destination where royal heritage meets everyday warmth. Whether you’re admiring forts, tasting world-famous snacks, or exploring the dunes by camel, the city offers year-round experiences that feel deeply rooted and refreshingly authentic. It’s less crowded than Rajasthan’s other tourist hotspots, yet just as rich in culture and beauty. So slow down, look around, and let Bikaner’s stories unfold. You’ll leave with a full heart, a full stomach, and memories to last a lifetime.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
